The evening begins with community caroling led by local radio host John Aielli of KUT 90.5 to get everyone in the holiday spirit. Once the holiday tree is lit, stroll south on Congress Avenue and enjoy live music, art, shopping, and more holiday festivities.

Fun Fact: The Capitol holiday tree is a live tree that tops 40 feet!

The streets will be in full holiday regalia and Congress Avenue retailers and restaurants will be open late and offering holiday specials. There are events happening throughout the day, so make sure to check out the event schedule for all the details!

And what holiday event would be complete without Santa? Sponsored by Caritas of Austin, Santa will be in his workshop and available for visits and photos. While you’re there, help fill the Caritas of Austin food pantry by donating jars of peanut butter at the Capitol Tree and at Santa’s Workshop in the lobby of the One American Center.

Holiday Sing-Along 7 Downtown StrollSaturday, December 4thCaroling starts at 6pm with tree lighting at 7 pmVisit www.downtownaustinholidays.com for all the details!

Final (and most important) Fun Fact: Last year, the Caritas of Austin food drive collected 2,172 pounds of food for local families during the event. Remember to bring a jar of peanut butter to donate!

Corrin Renee is a featured author for Texas Inexpensively. Corrin is Broke as a Spoke and blogs about her quest to become debt free. Including daily spending habits, fights with Sallie Mae, paying off all of her credit card debt, setting up an emergency fund, pumping up her 401k, and saving for lots of fun stuff like vacations, a house, new clothes, gadgets…the necessities. Follow Corrin on Twitter.